Indian Army Border Tourism: The 16th ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators Association of India) Convention began today in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. The event is focused on the theme of sustainable tourism development in India’s border regions.
The convention was attended by key figures including Ajeet Bajaj, President of ATOAI, Lt Gen Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff for Information Systems and Coordination, Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pasang Dorjee Sona, Tourism Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, and Capt. Swadesh Kumar, Founding President of ATOAI.
During the convention, senior delegates highlighted the importance of responsible tourism practices that protect the ecological integrity of these delicate regions, while also promoting economic growth and job creation.
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Lt Gen Kapoor’s Visit to Border Villages
Deputy Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Rakesh Kapoor, announced that the Indian Army is working on an online single-window platform to simplify and streamline access and permits for tourists visiting border villages. He shared this update while addressing the delegates at the Adventure Tour Operators Association’s annual conference in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
According to Economictimes, Lt Gen Kapoor mentioned that the website will be up and running soon. He emphasized that tourism and border villages have a mutually beneficial relationship, as tourism can drive economic activity in areas where large industries are not feasible, giving a significant boost to local communities.
Lt Gen Rakesh Kapoor stated that the government alone cannot bring about significant change in the lives of people living in border villages. He urged influential tour operators to take the initiative in adopting villages and creating sustainable tourism activities in collaboration with local communities.
He also assured the army’s support for responsible adventure tourism in these areas. The army is setting up weather stations across border regions to provide advanced weather warnings to tour operators.
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Lt Gen Kapoor also highlighted that the army is ready to assist with emergency rescues and aid in case of unforeseen events. He also mentioned that the army will help set up adventure camps in areas where infrastructure is lacking.
Focusing on Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu noted that the Indian Army has a strong connection with the region, with significant involvement in the area’s development and in supporting the local people as per IndiaTimes.
During the discussion on the government’s vibrant border village program, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also advocated for further development.
